Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Though this isn’t a long duration, I’ve acquired some knowledge during my residence here. London is a bustling metropolis, not only because of its extensive range of housing options but also thanks to its varied communities. Students have many choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide various alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, showcasing available amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to get around and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the particular fare structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London add to high living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less likely in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is not simple. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in shaping its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locales to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.